Real Estate: By the numbers: The realities of foreclosures

By BOB & DONNA McWILLIAMS, For The Capital

Published 06/07/09

In today's computerized world, it is easy to amass and manipulate large amounts of data. In doing so, one can quickly make a case for nearly any point of view.

All too often, we formulate a theory first, then proceed to seek out only that data which supports our preconceived notions. But the pursuit of truth is better served if we start with a cold, objective look at the facts and then let them act as a compass to more accurately lead us toward a proper conclusion. That's why we call this column "The Realities of Real Estate." We always make a concerted effort not to let our personal opinions outrun the relentless...

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other metrics - 2009-06-08 11:53:51

The number of filed foreclosures is one metric... I sure would like to see some others specific to AA county. How about the number of mortgages here that are more than 30/60/90 days overdue and the local unemployment rate? I bet if you compared those metrics to last year you would see some trends that would predict the foreclosure rate severity of the next 3 months. I hope it is leveling out, but I expect it is still getting worse unfortunately. It's ok, the free market will still work despite our governments best efforts at messing with it. As property gets cheaper due to the glut of foreclosures and need-based sales, the investors will step back in and buy up the bargains. I hope I get my chance at a few bargains.

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B Kibbey - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

Guilty as well - 2009-06-07 19:23:13

You are equally as guilty as the fellow columnist you lambaste in this article.
You discuss the anomaly of the 70 homes in April 2008, yet fail to address the anomaly of 170 homes in March 2009.
Your conclusion is that the foreclosure rate is essentially unchanged in Anne Arundel County based on the select months.
But, if you look at total numbers over the 4 months presented it is over a 20% increase...and THAT is significant.

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John F. - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent